Angat Buhay awarded 2026 Freedom Flame Award in Philippines

The nonprofit Angat Buhay (Angat Pinas, Inc.) was presented with the 2026 Freedom Flame Award by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Philippines at a ceremony in Pasig City’s Decagon Events Place. The award ceremony marked the foundation’s 40‑year presence in the country and the 15th anniversary of its awards program, celebrating advocates who protect civil liberties.

Center for Liberalism and Democracy Chair Gerry Bulatao handed the award to Angat Buhay’s Executive Director Raffy Magno, who accepted on behalf of the organization’s volunteers and partner groups. Angat Buhay, founded by former Vice President and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, was recognized for mobilising the Philippines’ largest volunteer network to support disaster response and long‑term nation‑building, thereby expanding citizen participation in democratic life.

Other honorees at the event included the Philippine Commission on Human Rights and the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats for their work defending civil liberties and fostering regional democratic solidarity.